Algiers, Algeria – The Palais des Expositions Abdellatif Rahal has become the focal point for technology and finance stakeholders as Algeria hosts the fourth annual African Startup Conference. The conference, which began today and runs through December 8th, serves as a major regional platform, bringing together investors and those involved in entrepreneurship.
The event coincides with preparations for the launch of the first tranche of funding from the support fund for startups and young innovators. The fund was established by presidential decree during the Intra-African Trade Fair held last September.
Nourredine Ouahdi, Minister of Knowledge Economy, Startups, and Micro-enterprises, stated that the conference has become an annual event where decision-makers and experts openly discuss the challenges of innovation and project financing. He emphasized that participating African officials recognize Algeria as hosting a crucial continental event every December to support startups and promote joint action.
The Minister stressed that the core idea of the conference is to consolidate a unified vision of innovation at both the Algerian and African levels, seeking to enhance the event’s impact on funding chains and field experiences within the continent.
This edition features a high-level ministerial meeting to discuss ways to exchange experiences between African countries. The goal is to unify policies supporting startups and highlight continental economic ‘champions’ capable of driving real growth. Discussions will also focus on incentives for private investment, the possibility of creating new funding mechanisms, and a review of the Algiers Declaration adopted in 2022 before its submission to the African Union.
The conference hosts 35 official delegations from continental and international ministries and bodies, as well as representatives of the African Union. Rwanda has been selected as the guest of honor this year. Organizers anticipate between 2,500 and 3,000 participants, along with approximately 200 exhibitors, showcasing the leading experiences of African entrepreneurs who have established successful startups. The event aims to foster collaboration and investment in Africa’s burgeoning startup ecosystem.
